Q7 joins Audi’s India stable

German luxury car maker Audi on Friday launched its premium SUV Q7. The Q7 joins Audi’s India stable which includes A6, A8 and A4. The company hopes the new launch will accelerate its growth in the country. The auto maker has not yet decided on setting up an assembly facility in India.

“We expect to triple our sales this year and sell about 300 units in India. Our target is to sell about 30,000 units by ’15,” said Andre Konsbruck, regional manager-overseas, Audi. The company sold about 105 units in India in ’05.

Q7 comes in two engine variants. While 3.0 TDI variant is priced at Rs 61 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), 4.2 FSI petrol variant costs over Rs 77 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The company expects to sell about 50 units of the Q7 this year. The German automaker is also ramping up its dealership chain. From three showrooms in Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore, it’s planning to extend the network to eight dealerships in the next two years.

Source:- EconomicTimes

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JWT bags creative duties for revamped Hero Honda CBZ

New Delhi, September 18
Bike major
Hero Honda is in the midst of re-launching one of its old but popular brands, CBZ. The creative duties for the same have gone to JWT, Delhi. For the advertising for this brand, Hero Honda executives had called for a pitch among the company’s roster agencies – Percept H, JWT and FCB Ulka. The agencies had made their presentations last week.

For the record, Percept H was handling the advertising for CBZ so far.

According to certain reliable sources, it was decided to re-launch the CBZ because the current model suffers from a few setbacks, which Hero Honda plans to rectify in the new one. Further, a source says that as of now, the company does not wish to give any new name to this improved model, as the brand CBZ still commands a huge equity in the market.

Earlier this year, Hero Honda announced plans to launch eight models in the current fiscal. June 2006 saw the launch of Hero Honda Glamour FI.

Currently, Hero Honda has 10 models in the market. A majority of its brands are handled by JWT. These include Super Splendor, Glamour, Achiever, CD Dawn, CD Deluxe, Karizma and – the latest – CBZ. FCB Ulka looks after Pleasure.

Source:- http://www.agencyfaqs.com/news/stories/2006/09/18/15988.html

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Bajaj is working on a 150 cc-ungeared scooter

Two-wheeler major Bajaj Auto Ltd, which discontinued production of its only ungeared scooter Wave, will re-enter the segment with a set of ungeared scooters ranging from 75-125 cc in the first quarter of next fiscal.

Bajaj Auto managing director Rajiv Bajaj confirmed to FE the company's move to launch ungeared scooters. Analysts say Bajaj is also working on a 150 cc-ungeared scooter.

Over the last decade Bajaj has shifted gear from a primarily geared scooters producer to a largely motorcycle manufacturer. As a result, it had lesser focus on this segment since the consumer preference was also moving towards motorcycles.

However, in recent times, ungeared scooters have made a comeback, forcing Bajaj to rethink its strategy.

According to Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) data, during April-August 2006-07, the scooter (75-125cc) segment, dominated by ungeared variants, grew 22.80% to 3,14,459.

The segment is led by Japan's Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI), which registered a growth of 27.47% by selling 1,55,398 units during the period. HMSI has Activa (102 cc) as its flagship brand in this segment.

During the period, Hero Honda Motors sold 34,083 units of its new scooter model, Pleasure (102 cc). Another major player TVS Motor sold 1,03,025 units of scooterette, Scooty (75cc) recording a growth of 15.87%.

Bajaj Auto saw the sales of its lone offering, 110 cc Wave, decline 71% from 21,781 units in April-August, 2004-05.

Source:- www.financialexpress.com

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Big Auto links to chase H dream

Tata, Bajaj, M&M, Ashok Leyland will work on hydrogen fuel vehicles

It seems it’s not just politics that makes strange bedfellows. The quest for cheaper, environment-friendly fuel, too, does.

Four Indian automobile giants — Tata Motors, Bajaj Auto, Mahindra & Mahindra and Ashok Leyland — have joined hands under the aegis of Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).

Their agenda? To find out how hydrogen can be used as an alternative fuel.

As a first step, the companies will experiment with a blend of hydrogen and CNG, called hithane.

Says K K Gandhi, executive director (technical), SIAM: “These four companies and the Indian Oil Corporation will conduct a pilot study on optimisation of hithane by blending 10-20% of hydrogen and CNG.”

The use of hydrogen as an alternative fuel will help reduce dependence on foreign oil. Besides, it will also reduce NOX (nitrous oxide) emissions and help achieve better fuel efficiency.

In a hydrogen engine, electricity generated from solar power is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Oxygen is released into the atmosphere, while hydrogen is liquefied and stored at a very low temperature (-253 °C). During internal combustion, the hydrogen combines with oxygen. The resulting energy powers the vehicle, while the hydrogen is returned to the environment as water.

However, several issues have to be addressed before viable hydrogen engines can be developed indigenously.

Explains Arun Jaura, senior V-P (R&D and product development), M&M: “The use of hydrogen in vehicles poses several challenges such as its availability, distribution, on-board storage and safety. The SIAM project is the first step towards looking for a viable use of hydrogen in automobiles in the Indian context.”

M&M has already made a beginning with hydrogen — by showcasing a concept vehicle called HY-Alpha Champion in this year’s Auto Expo. HY-Alpha is a sub-one tonne category three-wheeler, which runs on compressed hydrogen gas so that there is zero carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide emission and a much cleaner tailpipe emission. Besides, it provides up to 25% better fuel efficiency compared with traditional fuels.

Bajaj Auto already possesses an entire fleet of CNG vehicles - three-wheeler passenger carriers as well as goods carriers. Pradeep Shrivastava, V-P (Engineering), says the company is interested in any alternative that offers fuels with lower emissions of NOX (nitrous oxide). “Whatever is needed to modify engines for trial purposes under this project will be done by Bajaj Auto,” he says.

Though all this is new in India, there has been attempts to develop hydrogen fuel cells and hydrogen engines in the United States and some parts of Europe.

Yet, even in their home countries, such technologies are still being confined largely to institutional transport fleets.

However, with German luxury car maker BMW having just declared its intention to roll in a vehicle which will run on liquid hydrogen, things sure look bright for the green brigade.

Source:- www.dnaindia.com

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Pulsar 180 V3 next week

Its official now

"Bajaj Auto is planning to launch an upgraded version of Pulsar 180cc next week. The bike is expected to be priced at around Rs 60000."

"Bajaj is commanding leadership in the premium 150cc segment of the market with continued success of Pulsar twins which is expected to strengthen further after the new launch."

"The company has also cut the price of its entry level 100cc model Platina by Rs 2000 in order to increase its market share from current 29-30% in the entry level segment."

"With continued growth of motorcycles, Bajaj has consistently outperformed the industry."

"The stock trades at 17.6x its FY08P earnings which offeres further upside from its core business as well as value un-locking from its insurance subsidiaries. We maintain our buy recommendation."

Source:- www.moneycontrol.com

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Suzuki RM-Z450

Suzuki Australia is preparing to unleash the ultimate four-stroke weapon - the latest incarnation of the all-conquering RM-Z450.

Featuring a number of notable updates, the supremely balanced RM-Z450 offers strong, controllable power and extremely lightweight handling for breathtaking acceleration and total rider confidence.

Remarkably easy to ride, the Suzuki RM-Z450 is loaded with advanced technology including the Suzuki Advanced Sump System, the Suzuki Active Vent System, lightweight and durable titanium valves, hollow billet camshafts and much more.

The updated 450cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve engine features a lightweight design with the emphasis on broad power delivery.

Re-shaped intake ports for optimal efficiency offer increased engine performance at low-to-mid rpm.

A durable forged-aluminium piston with oil-retaining grooves reduces friction and wear, while the aluminium cylinder bore and oil control rings are electro-plated for increased durability and heat transfer.

Equipped with an NGK iridium spark plug for better combustion, the RM-Z450's combustion chamber has been re-designed to provide increased engine output.

The Suzuki Active Vent System reduces crank chamber pressure and enhances piston ring seal performance, while the Suzuki Advanced Sump System permits low crankshaft placement for reduced engine height and low centre of gravity.

The RM-Z450's new scavenging pump provides increased lubrication and improved durability, combined with reduced mechanical losses at the crankshaft.

For easy maintenance, the RM-Z450's oil strainer is now easily overhauled without separating the crankcases.

Featuring a Keihin FCR40 carburetor with hot start system and throttle-position sensor, the RM-Z450 incorporates an automatic decompression system for easy kick starting.

Updated carburetor settings and a lightweight exhaust system with titanium head pipe, large-capacity stainless-steel secondary pipe and aluminium muffler also enhance the power of the new RM-Z450.

Retaining the four-speed transmission for weight reduction and compact engine size.

Re-designed radiator shrouds offer the RM-Z450 improved cooling efficiency and an aggressive new look, while the sidecovers are now vented for maximum airflow.

Designed for optimum strength, rigidity and weight the updated aluminium-alloy, twin-spar frame features thicker lower tubes and thinner tank rails for unmatched cornering performance.

Featuring a re-shaped pivot section and shorter main section, the new aluminium swingarm with tapered beam incorporates a cast-aluminium cross beam to improve straight-line performance.

Suspension settings have also been updated to match the all-new frame including Showa cartridge-style front forks with 47mm inner tube, offering 22-way compression damping, 20-way rebound damping and 310mm of wheel travel.

The Showa rear shock absorber with its large 50mm piston and 18mm inner rod provide increased oil flow and stable damping performance, while the RM-Z450 rear suspension linkage allows smooth movement for improved rear wheel traction.

Front and rear brake discs now feature a round-hole design for reduced weight, with the compact 240mm rear disc brake sporting a lightweight caliper body.

Specially-designed Bridgestone tyres with a large contact patch offer improved traction and acceleration while aluminium wheels, spokes and spoke nipples are designed for the best balance of weight, rigidity and overall wheel strength.

Renthal tapered aluminium handlebars with Renthal-labelled handlebar pad are included as standard.

An all-new seat with new textured side panels offers increased knee grip, plus lightweight titanium serrated footpegs are included for maximum strength and improved grip in all riding conditions.

Expected to arrive in Australia in September, the RM-Z450 will be available in Suzuki's Champion Yellow sporting updated aggressive graphics. The suggested retail price is to be announced.

SUZUKI RM-Z450K7 - Specifications

• Engine: 449cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC, 4-valve
• Bore Stroke: 95.5 x 62.8mm
• Compression Ratio: 11.9:1
• Fuel System: Keihin FCR40MX
• Lubrication: Semi-dry sump
• Ignition: Digital CDI
• Transmission: 4-speed
• Final Drive: #520 chain
• Overall Length: 2,185 mm
• Overall Width: 830 mm
• Overall Height: 1,260 mm
• Seat Height: 955 mm
• Ground Clearance: 350 mm
• Wheelbase: 1,480 mm
• Dry Weight: 100 kg
• Suspension Front: Telescopic, cartridge-type, 22 compression & 20 rebound settings, 310mm of wheel travel
• Suspension Rear: Link-type, spring preload fully-adjustable, 16 compression & 19 rebound settings, 310mm of wheel travel
• Brakes Front: Single hydraulic disc - Rear: Single hydraulic disc
• Tyres Front: 90/100-21 51M - Rear: 120/80-19 57M
• Fuel Capacity: 7.0 litre
• Colour: Yellow
• Price: TBA
• Available: September 2006

Source:- MCNews

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Virgin Mobile rep scooter

A limited edition Yamaha Mobile replica paintscheme is now available on the Aerox 50 scooter, and it doesn't cost any extra.

The price also includes free Third Party Insurance, a one year manufacturer unlimited mileage warranty, 12-months RAC breakdown cover, and a fitted Datatag anti-theft security marking system. Three named family members can also benefit from the TPO insurance, with Fire and Theft upgrades available.

In addition to the new Virgin Mobile livery, you can also pick Race Replica, Yellow 50th Anniversary Laguna Seca, Blue, Silver or Black paintschemes. The Yamaha Aerox costs £2199 on the road. Contact: 01932-358121.

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Haydon back for Suzuki

James Haydon will return to racing for the penultimate round of the British Superbike Championship at Silverstone on September 17.
Haydon has missed the previous four rounds due to serious injuries to his left side from a crash at the Snetterton round in June.
"I tested at Silverstone at the start of the month and it was a relief to be back on a Superbike again after such a long break," said Haydon. "I'm under no illusions. I will be bedding myself back into racing gently and hope I can challenge for the top 10 on my comeback ride. It's like the season is starting all over again for me."
Haydon rejoins Rizla Suzuki team-mate Shane Byrne, who is aiming to hold fourth place in the championship, and improve with race wins at the last two rounds.

Source:- MCN

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Govt plans to offer tax breaks, fiscal sops to spur R&D

It’s going to be a joy ride for the auto manufacturing sector in India, with the government mulling several incentives for the industry. To prepare a comprehensive manufacturing competitiveness plan and provide R&D incentives to the sector, the government has set up two committees — one on fiscal incentives and the second on duty structures. R Mashelkar will head the panel on fiscal incentives.

The panel will consider providing 100% grants for fundamental research, 75% for pre-competitive research and 50% grants for product development. It will also consider zero tax on technology transfer for products, features and alternate fuels, among others.

The committee will also look at the feasibility of increasing the weighted tax deduction for expenditure under R&D from 150% to 200%. It is also looking at extending the period of applicability of the tax set-off from 2007 to 2016. In addition, the committee may recommend duty concessions for auto products made in India. The proposal, put forth by the ministry of heavy industries, involves extending excise duty benefits to vehicles and components designed and developed by Indian companies with their own IPR, and even those which cannot be patented but can be registered under the design and copyright laws.

The panel will also consider a proposal to allow design registration in two other countries, other than India. If the committee accepts the recommendations of the ministry of heavy industries, the IPR for a product designed and developed in India will be held by the company registered in India, even if it is the subsidiary of a foreign company.

The Anwar ul Hoda Committee is working on a three-tier tariff structure along with rationalisation of taxes on inter-state and inter-city movement of vehicles and goods. The committee is also considering setting up a technology upgradation fund and virtual SEZs for the auto sector.

This apart, the Hoda committee will also consider the establishment of auto parks, which may be set up on a public-private partnership model.

Source:- EconomicTimes

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On the road to a hydrogen-fuelled future

THE latest developments in enviro-friendly fuel-cell technology could find their way into real-world applications within the next decade. DaimlerChrysler, one of the leaders in the research race, has more than 100 fuel-cell vehicles operating around the world, including three Mercedes-Benz Citaro buses in Perth.

A fleet of 30 of the fuel-cell buses — utilising technology that is already largely outdated — has covered more than 500,000km and carried more than 10 million passengers in countries from Europe to China since 2003.

Also circulating in a variety of urban environments is a collection of A-Class and B-Class based fuel-cell models.

Fuel-cell technology has been buzz development for many key manufacturers, with Honda, Nissan and General Motors all having models operating in day-to-day situations.

Honda's FCX is the first of the cars to go to private owners with very limited numbers utilising the "hydrogen highway" filling station infrastructure around Los Angeles.

However, it is the Mercedes-Benz F600 HYGenius that is providing the excitement and advances engineers hope will accelerate the flow to a commercial fuel cell future.

"We want to improve the robustness and service life of the entire system. And the best way to see if we're succeeding is to take the vehicle on test drives over long distances," says Andreas Docter, who was responsible for the construction of the fuel-cell system used in the HYGenius and also heads the fuel-cell systems engineering department at DaimlerChrysler Research.

Technology improvements and refinements give the HYGenius a fuel efficiency equivalent of 2.9 litres of diesel per 100kilometres. Packaging is one of the key areas demonstrated on the HYGenius with the vehicle's entire drive unit tucked away in the vehicle's sandwich floor.

er engineers say one of the most significant innovations on the HYGenius running model is a new fuel tank that can store hydrogen at 700bar, double the pressure of the previous model.

The pressure increase allows up to 4kg of hydrogen to be carried, enough for a 400km journey. Also causing excitement is a new membrane technology for the fuel cells and and a new humidification system consisting of hollow fibres.

Both innovations allow for precise heat and water management, which means water in liquid form no longer collects in the stack.

Water freezing in the stack during winter has previously been a serious stumbling block with severe difficulty in starting the engine.

The new technology allows the HYGenius to start easily at temperatures as low as minus 25 Celsius.

The test-bed HYGenius is also running a new smaller and more powerful electric-drive unit on the rear axle, a lithium ion battery that produces twice the output of the previous nickel metal hydride units, new bipolar plates that replaces graphite with .15mm-thick foil helping to reduce the size of the stack by almost 40 per cent, and a newly developed electric turbocharger, smaller and more efficient to supply oxygen to the cells.

Mercedes-Benz has a strong record of technology transfer from research vehicles to production models.

Since 1981, the company has displayed 11 research models with technologies such as Distronic cruise control, gas-discharge lamps (xenon), active body control, window airbags, corning lights and voice-activated systems making the leap to mainstream production.

Source :- CarGuide

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2006 Malaysian MotoGP - Race Results

Source :- SuperWheels

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Bajaj cuts Platina price by Rs 2000

Kicking off cut-throat competition before the festive season, number two bike maker Bajaj Auto Ltd on Monday slashed the price of its popular 100cc model "Platina" by as much as Rs 2,000 as it paces to catch on market leader Hero Honda.

"Effective today, we have reduced the price of the top- end Platina to Rs 35,000 from Rs 37,000," Bajaj Auto Vice-President Marketing and Sales S Sridhar told media here from Mumbai.

He said the price reduction was part of the festive season offer by Bajaj. The company has, however, not fixed any time-frame for the offer.

"It would depend on how it will be accepted by the customers," he said.

Sridhar also said as a part of the offer, the base model of Platina, which will not see any price cut, will come with added features like alloy wheels at the existing price of Rs 34,000.

The company does not plan to tinker with the prices of its other models like Pulsar and Discover.

Bajaj Auto has been giving a tough competition to market leader Hero Honda with increased sales of motorcycles.

During August, the company had sold 1,58,636 units as against 1,33,685 units in the same month last year thereby registering a growth of 18.66 per cent.

Hero Honda, on the other hand, registered a decline in sales during August by 15.91 per cent at 2,00,208 units as compared to 2,38,104 units in the same month last year.

The gap between the two motorcycle biggies stood at just 41,572 units in motorcycle sales during August.


Source:- EconomicTimes

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Rossi wins MotoGP class of Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix

The telling move: Valentino Rossi overtakes compatriot Loris Capirossi at the last corner to win the Malaysian Grand Prix yesterday.
Photo: AP

Photo: AP

MOTO GP world champion Valentino Rossi stayed in the hunt for another coveted championship yesterday with a battling victory in the Malaysian Grand Prix, raising the stakes for next weekend's contest at Phillip Island.

The Italian Yamaha rider, who started from the pole in dry conditions in the 21-lap race, fought off an intense challenge from his countryman Loris Capirossi on a Ducati at the wide and twisting 5.5-kilometre Sepang circuit.

Title contender Spain's Daniel Pedrosa on a Honda finished third, while championship leader Nicky Hayden of the US (Honda) was fourth. Australia's Casey Stoner twisted his back during the race and faded to finish eighth.

With the victory, Rossi claimed valuable points to narrow the gap with Hayden in his bid to claim a sixth world title.

The injured Pedrosa, who started fifth, snatched the lead from Rossi on the first lap but Rossi successfully regained the top spot. Then Capirossi, last year's winner here, became the new dangerman for Rossi.

On lap 17, Capirossi overtook Rossi in a tight corner and maintained his lead despite a stiff challenge from the Yamaha rider. It was a cat-and-mouse game between the two riders but Rossi managed to outsmart Capirossi in the final laps to win the race.

Rossi described the race as an "incredible battle", saying the win brought with it 25 valuable points for his championship title.

"This time I win. The battle was incredible. I think we overtook each other at least 10 times or more," he said. "I think it is one of my best races in my career."

Capirossi, meanwhile, described the race as one of the most exciting of the season. "We have four more races to go and I hope it will be like that," he said, adding that the "championship title remains open".

Hayden leads the championship with 214 points, followed by teammate Pedrosa with 192, while Rossi has 188 points.

Challenging Hayden for fourth yesterday, Stoner looked set to charge forward before twisting his back mid-race. He was hoping to snare vital points at his home track at this weekend's Australian Grand Prix but his campaign is now under a cloud. "I'm not feeling the best, to tell you the truth — feeling a bit gritty," Stoner said.

"I went into a corner, deep on the brakes, and the bike bottomed-out a bit and then wobbled and it seemed to jink my back. I was really struggling to go into corners under brakes. I had to use my upper body to change direction and it just wore me out."

Source:- TheAge

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Kawasaki Ninja 500R

Efficient performance for the everyday rider

The Kawasaki Ninja® 500R offers stable handling and friendly power delivery for new riders, coupled with Ninja styling and willing performance for the more experienced motorcyclist. Providing excellent fuel economy and an affordable purchase price, the 500R is also a great choice for those who are looking to ease the crunch of soaring gas prices and add some fun to their daily commute.

Expert and beginning riders will appreciate the Ninja 500R’s liquid-cooled, inline twin-cylinder four-stroke engine. With dual overhead cams actuating four valves per cylinder, the snappy motor is user-friendly and inspirational. Exploring the top end of this engine’s rev range is entertaining for even the most seasoned riders.

The high-performance engine isn't the only selling point for the Ninja 500R. On twisty back roads, the bike’s lightweight, compact design makes for a great-handling machine. This is complemented by Kawasaki’s UNI-TRAK® rear suspension system, with a progressive linkage similar to the larger-displacement Ninja models.

The Ninja 500R also has the same sporty styling, which contribute to both form and function—the aerodynamic half-fairing provides wind protection for the rider, and is stylishly complemented by a lower fairing.

2007 Kawasaki Ninja 500R Specifications

• Engine: Four-stroke, DOHC, parallel twin
• Displacement: 498cc
• Starting: Electric
• Bore x stroke: 74.0 x 58.0mm
• Compression ratio: 10.8:1
• Cooling: Liquid
• Carburetion: Keihin CVK34 x 2
• Ignition: TCBI with digital advance
• Transmission: Six-speed
• Final drive: Chain
• Frame: High-tensile steel, perimeter design
• Rake / trail: 27 degrees / 3.6 in.
• Front suspension / wheel travel: 37mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 5.1 in.
• Rear suspension / wheel travel: UNI-TRAK® system with single shock / 3.9 in.
• Front tire: 11/70x17 tubeless
• Rear tire: 130/70x17 tubeless
• Front brake / rear brake: Hydraulic disc / Disc
• Overall length: 82.5 in.
• Overall width: 27.6 in.
• Overall height: 45.7 in.
• Ground clearance: 4.7 in.
• Seat height: 30.5 in.
• Dry weight: 388 lbs.
• Fuel capacity: 4.8 gal.
• Wheelbase: 56.5 in.
• Color: Metallic Titanium or Solar Yellow
• MSRP: $5,049

---

Features

Twin-cylinder 498cc Engine

• Compact parallel-twin design
• Superior engineering produces sport bike power with broad usable torque
• Good mass centralization for superior handling

Liquid Cooling

• Maintains consistent engine temperatures for long engine life and sustained power during hard use
• Allows closer engine tolerances for more horsepower
• Includes temperature gauge

Auxiliary Cooling Fan

• Maintains optimum temperature for best performance, fuel economy and reliability

Four Valves per Cylinder

• Better breathing for more power at high rpm
• Compact combustion chamber for increased compression ratio without detonation on today’s gasolines
• Boosts low-end torque
• Provides maximum valve area for optimum flow

34mm CVK Semi-flat Slide Carburetors

• Precise fuel metering provides uniform power delivery at all engine speeds
• Quick throttle response

Digital Ignition

• Microprocessor-controlled timing never needs adjustment
• Ultra-responsive to engine needs

Six-speed Transmission

• Provides excellent acceleration and relaxed highway cruising

Positive Neutral Finder

• Just lift the shift pedal from first at a stop to find neutral easily, every time
• A Kawasaki exclusive

Standard Half Fairing

• Offers rider wind protection for more comfort
• Incorporates large, easy-to-read instruments with twin resettable trip meters
• Stylish lower fairing completes the Ninja® image

Double-cradle Steel Box-section Frame

• High-tensile steel perimeter frame
• Lightweight, with superior rigidity for more precise handling and better control
• Centerstand included for convenience

37mm Front Fork

• Large-diameter fork tubes with thin walls for light weight and exceptional rigidity

Front Disc Brake with Dual-piston Caliper

• Disc is drilled for better cooling and reduced unsprung weight
• Dual-piston caliper increases braking effectiveness

Rear Disc Brake

• Powerful and controllable
• Single-piston caliper

Bottom-link UNI-TRAK® Rear Suspension

• Lowers the center of gravity for better handling
• Progressive rate provides a smoother, more controlled ride
• Lightweight aluminum components provide quick suspension response

17-inch Wheels

• Wide, modern 17-inch rims fit low-profile, high-performance tires

Source:- PowerSports network

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How safe is your bike?

Streamliner designer Mike Ackitiff and rider Rocky Robinson opened a new era in motorcycle land speed racing, knocking down a 16-year-old mark and setting a new world record of 342.797 mph at the AMA/FIM International Motorcycle Speed Trials Sunday on the famed Utah Bonneville Salt Flats. The mark bests the old record, set by Dave Campos in a dual-Harley-Davidson-engined Easyriders Streamliner, by nearly 20 mph.

Riding a dual-Suzuki-Hayabusa-engined streamliner conceived and built by Ackitiff and dubbed "Ack Attack," Robinson took off for his first run on the 11-mile course on the salt, spun the wheels a bit, and then cooly notched a speed through the measured 1-mile traps of 344.673 mph.

World records governed by the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme require that a second run be completed in the opposite direction within two hours, with the average of both speeds standing as the record. The crew turned the motorcycle around in 55 minutes, aimed it down the course, and when the wind stopped, did a second run of 340.922 mph.

Source:- TopSpeed

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New Suzuki GSR600S

Suzuki has launched a new version of the popular GSR600 with a new headlight fairing cowl and a stylish radiator cover. The new GSR600S is available in matt black only, and comes at the same price as the standard GSR600 ($9700).

The engine is based on the GSX-R600S, but it has an output of only 98 hp.

Source:- TopSpeed

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Become $350000 (Rs 16,192,483) for a Batman Forever Batmobile

Being a rich lawyer allows you to buy all stuff you want. For example a $500000 for a "Celebrity Lamborghini Gallardo, but also a $350000 (Rs 16,192,483) Batman Forever Batmobile. And if you thought this is all, well then you are wrong, he also bought: a $250,000 1938 Cadillac Town Car used by Pope Pius XII and a $290,000 1941 Packard limousine used by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

John O’Quinn paid $690,000 at a Kruse auction in Las Vegas last year for a 1975 Ford Escort GL once owned by Pope John Paul II.

Source:- TopSpeed

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Speeding for a strange reason...

When you are being caught speeding and you are run out of excuses try this: "I was taking advantage of the ability to drive fast without hitting a goat". Is not a joke, this is what a guy from Canada told the police when he was caught traveling 100 mph in a 60 mph zone in eastern Ontario Sunday.

"A motorist from Switzerland, used to driving around hills and mountains, takes advantage of the ability to go faster without risking hitting a goat," read the traffic officer’s notes of the incident.

For the adventure he took he had to pay a speed ticket of $330.

Source:- Top Speed

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German biofuel tech for Indian cars

India and Germany are set to cooperate in engine technology for alternative fuels, given the rising fuel prices and pressure on fossil fuels. German companies have developed engines which can run on bio-fuel. Now, with a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and Verband der Automobileindustrie (VDA) , technology transfer is set to become a reality.

India may also benefit by getting technology for more fuel-efficient engines, especially in case of Diesel. Speaking at an Indo-German symposium organized by the ministry of heavy industries on Saturday, VDA president Bernd Gottschalk said that India has the potential to produce 100m tonnes of bio-diesel. It is essential for the two countries to cooperate in the field of both biofuel compatible engines and use of biofuel, he added. The two countries should cooperate in the field of clean diesel, better propulsion technologies and harmonies technical regulations.

According to German Parliamentary state secretary Ulrich Kasparick, it is possible to convert 35% of all transport to biofuel. Germany will also help India to transfer technology that will substantially bring down the levels of sulphur in D. Germany has already started with a 6% biofuel mix to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

Union heavy industries minister Santosh Mohan Dev said “India and Germany need to double bilateral trade from the current e5bn to e10bn by ’10 and for this, cooperation in the field of automobiles is welcome” .

India will also be exploring the possibilities of using hydrogen-powered fuels and other fuels as an alternative to fossil fuels given India’s rising oil import bill, he added.

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